2001 Acura Integra Type R -- Introduction

2/2/2001 6:16:34 AM

INTRODUCTION
The limited-edition Integra Type R Sports Coupe has been developed to
maximize the sporty car's dynamic capabilities and further emphasize
Acura's belief that driving is its own reward. There were three
primary targets during the development process: performance, handling
and control, and an exciting driving experience. Engineering teams,
which included racing veterans from the Formula One ranks,
incorporated the dynamic essence of true race cars while developing
the Type R, and thoroughly carried the "driving pleasure" theme
through every stage of development. Not surprisingly, a heavy
emphasis was placed on the Type R's performance on the racetrack
during development, all in an effort to deliver an exciting car with
exceptional acceleration, braking and handling capabilities.

CONCEPTS AND GOALS
The Integra Type R Sports Coupe was designed to achieve:

Quick response and acceleration through its high-revving VTEC
engine

Outstanding cornering response thanks, in part, to a lower
center of gravity and track-tuned suspension to enable linear
cornering with minimal understeer

Unique styling and exclusive features such as a Type
R-exclusive rear wing spoiler, 5-bolt alloy wheels and Type R
graphics

OVERVIEW
The limited production Type R model first joined the Acura Integra
line-up in 1997 and was an overnight sensation. Like its fellow
Integra models, the Type R features numerous technological
innovations that maximize performance and handling, and provide high
levels of safety, durability and efficiency. However, it goes a step
further by embodying the spirit and technological achievements
demonstrated in Formula One racing. Thus, it is clear that engineers
placed a heavy emphasis on the performance characteristics of the
Type R during development.

Lower overall vehicle height (by 15 mm) and aerodynamic
refinements that result in 30% less lift (Cl) and 1% less drag
(Cd)

Racetrack-calibrated suspension and high-performance
tires

Larger disk brakes with performance-oriented calipers

Refined Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)

Reinforced unit body structure

A number of other features were added to heighten the sporty
appeal of the Type R, including:

Chin spoiler, wing-type rear spoiler, and body-colored side
sills

Lightweight aluminum alloy wheels

Sport-style seats

Leather-wrapped steering wheel and aluminum shifter knob

Special serial number plate affixed to the center console

Carbon fiber-like instrumentation design with amber
illumination

"Type R" graphics

In the true spirit of racing, a select number of comfort and
convenience features on the Integra Type R have been eliminated in an
effort to minimize the vehicle's overall weight. These include items
such as a sunroof, vanity mirrors and cruise control. Other items
that have been eliminated for weight considerations include dashboard
insulator, transmission mount, drive shaft and shifter dynamic
damper, and melt-sheet for the floor stamping.

Key safety features of the Type R include:

Standard driver's and front passenger's Supplemental Restraint
System (SRS) air bags on all models

3-point seat belts

Projector beam headlights

Front and rear crumple zones

Side-impact protection

Like other 2001 Integra models, Type R's standard features
include:

105,000-mile tune-up intervals

A vehicle immobilizer anti-theft system

An On-board Vapor Recovery System -- two years earlier than
required by regulation